What do you think?
Rate this book
Guardians #1
Defending Kyra
Gareth Harkness is a supernatural predator born to hunt his natural enemy – vampires. Hunting isn’t his job, it’s his calling, one that doesn’t leave a lot of time for a normal life. He’s got a mission instead of a mortgage, and the only woman in his life is the nameless beauty who haunts his dreams.
Kyra Robinson is too pragmatic to believe in magic, monsters, or things that go bump in the night. She’s forced to change her attitude when a random encounter at her Vancouver nightclub puts her in the sights of a vampire who wants her for his own.
Kyra is desired by two men, the hunter, and the killer. After a lifetime of protecting herself, she’ll have to put her heart, and her life, in the hands of a man just as dangerous as the creature hunting her.
**Publisher’s Note – This book was previously released as Whispers in the Dark. It has been revised and updated.
Kyra Robinson is too pragmatic to believe in magic, monsters, or things that go bump in the night. She’s forced to change her attitude when a random encounter at her Vancouver nightclub puts her in the sights of a vampire who wants her for his own.
Kyra is desired by two men, the hunter, and the killer. After a lifetime of protecting herself, she’ll have to put her heart, and her life, in the hands of a man just as dangerous as the creature hunting her.
**Publisher’s Note – This book was previously released as Whispers in the Dark. It has been revised and updated.
220 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 23, 2012
172 people are currently reading
270 people want to read
About the author
Susan Hayes
97 books464 followersSusan lives out on the Canadian west coast surrounded by open water, dear family and good friends. She’s jumped out of perfectly good airplanes on purpose and accidentally swum with sharks on the Great Barrier Reef. If the world ends, she plans to survive as the spunky, comedic sidekick to the heroes of the new world, because she’s too damned short and out of shape to make it on her own for long.
Writing is her joy, her escape from reality and the only way she knows of to quiet the nagging harridan of a muse the universe assigned to her.
To contact her about her books or to arrange end of the world team-ups, you can email her at susanhayesromance@gmail.com
Writing is her joy, her escape from reality and the only way she knows of to quiet the nagging harridan of a muse the universe assigned to her.
To contact her about her books or to arrange end of the world team-ups, you can email her at susanhayesromance@gmail.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
October 3, 2018
Defending Kyra
This is the first book that I read of Susan Hayes. My gawd! I loved it! From the start up to the last, I was hooked. Kyra and Gareth are both strong and interesting characters. Kyra is not your typical damsel in distress, she's a woman who can protect herself and definitely a kick_a**. Anyway, overall story and characrers of this book are amazing! Loved it!
This is the first book that I read of Susan Hayes. My gawd! I loved it! From the start up to the last, I was hooked. Kyra and Gareth are both strong and interesting characters. Kyra is not your typical damsel in distress, she's a woman who can protect herself and definitely a kick_a**. Anyway, overall story and characrers of this book are amazing! Loved it!
February 4, 2020
DNF'D.
Insta-love + vampires = no thanks. I tried the first three chapters and it's just not for me.
Insta-love + vampires = no thanks. I tried the first three chapters and it's just not for me.
June 23, 2018
Kyra man she knows how to kick *ss and take names and there's no shame in her game when she does. She's a top end
club owner and takes her responsibilities seriously. Keeping her customers and staff safe whatever the cost.
Kyra really didn't have or didn't think she had time for a relationship, funny that all of a sudden there are two males in her life.
With a hunter and killer all about the girl life takes on a whole different meaning for the sassy club owner but she seems to take it in stride and hardly misses a beat.
The hot as sin killer predator and prey all focused on a female that he thinks will give him the challenge in what has become a less than fulfilling life. The drop dead gorgeous hunter after a dangerous monster his only end game is taking the monster out; well and finding the cause of his hot dreams about a woman he doesn't know.
Susan Hayes has done a fab job of creating characters that are full of personality. A story that was just a tad bit slow starting but picked up and ended full of adventure, hot sexy scenes. A first book in a new series I think its well worth the read, Guardians book 1 Enjoy
November 23, 2012
Loved it! I am an absolute vampire lover, so I thought I was going to be a little upset when the vamp in this book was the bad guy. However, I'm totaly on board with the hunter in this book. It was an awesome book, I loved all of the action and the hot hot sex!! I wouldn't necessarily call this a love triangle tho, more like a couple with a mean vampire stalker, lol. Kyra is absolutely kick a** and handles the total disruption in her life very well, it helps that she has this totally hot hunter protecting her and helping her through it. Great read!
November 28, 2012
Book Title: Whispers in the Dark
Author: Susan Hayes
Publisher: Siren-Bookstrand
Genre:Paranormal/Contemporary
Novel
Reviewed by: Maven
4 Flames Sizzling Hot
4 Stars Recommended Read!
So what’s a gal to do when she has a vampire trying to claim her, and a vampire hunter who has dreamed of her for years? Not what you may expect, and that’s a good thing.
The heroine in this book, Kyra, isn’t the swooning type, but a strong independent woman who has a “protector.” From the very beginning of the book you witness Kyra’s loyalty and strength. She’s a great kick-ass woman!
For more go to: http://thetalentcavereviews.weebly.com
Author: Susan Hayes
Publisher: Siren-Bookstrand
Genre:Paranormal/Contemporary
Novel
Reviewed by: Maven
4 Flames Sizzling Hot
4 Stars Recommended Read!
So what’s a gal to do when she has a vampire trying to claim her, and a vampire hunter who has dreamed of her for years? Not what you may expect, and that’s a good thing.
The heroine in this book, Kyra, isn’t the swooning type, but a strong independent woman who has a “protector.” From the very beginning of the book you witness Kyra’s loyalty and strength. She’s a great kick-ass woman!
For more go to: http://thetalentcavereviews.weebly.com
March 14, 2020
4 Stars
June 15, 2018
Defending Kyra is the first book in the Guardian Series by Ms. Hayes. Kyra is successful at keeping her club safe, but who will guard her when she’s in danger? Dreams that turn into nightmares, time missing, and worst of all, deaths are surrounding Kyra. When a pizza delivery turns into Gareth, a Brotherhood Hunter, she immediately feels safe and warmth, and attraction, but can she trust the guy who she just met? Can he keep her safe from an ancient vampire intent on turning her into his consort?
Ever since I was a teenager, vampires have held my attention and pieces of my heart, specifically Dracula. This book is such an amazing twist on the story that we all know and love, but still made it so original and with a romance that just sucked me in! Kyra was amazing! When I’d be a sobbing mess, she kept her cool and stuck to her training, defending herself every way she possibly could. Gareth was definitely a protective alpha, but even when certain instincts drove him hard, he still gave Kyra the space to collect herself. His background was really cool, but I loved how she just accepted him. The beginning of the book had almost a darker tone to it, but I’m happy the light shines through and I loved Kyra and Gareth together! I absolutely loved this story and I can’t wait to see where this series will go next!
Ever since I was a teenager, vampires have held my attention and pieces of my heart, specifically Dracula. This book is such an amazing twist on the story that we all know and love, but still made it so original and with a romance that just sucked me in! Kyra was amazing! When I’d be a sobbing mess, she kept her cool and stuck to her training, defending herself every way she possibly could. Gareth was definitely a protective alpha, but even when certain instincts drove him hard, he still gave Kyra the space to collect herself. His background was really cool, but I loved how she just accepted him. The beginning of the book had almost a darker tone to it, but I’m happy the light shines through and I loved Kyra and Gareth together! I absolutely loved this story and I can’t wait to see where this series will go next!
June 21, 2018
Ok, so how do I review this book? I loved it, but started off thinking hmmmm not so sure. Why you ask. Well it started off slow and it took a bit to grab me but when it did, holy cow I was hooked. I did not put it down after about the 25% mark because there just wasn't a good place to do so. Kyra is really a hellcat like she is called by Gareth. She is a total kick a$$. Gareth is a hunter, a protector of humans and a killer of vampires. Kyra is the one. The one he needs to protect from an ancient vampire and also the one who the fates have determined is his. His mate. I love the twist of things in this book and since we know it is an HEA, the way it ends and he finally gets his woman and ends the bad guy. The details? Naaaa, you need to read to get those. Just know that it is action packed, steamy, and has some funny moments. Everything you could ask for in a book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 3, 2020
I loved this story. fast paced, intriguing, suspenceful, scary, and so many more emotions u will feel reading this awesome story.
the characters are very well developed and make u feel u are part of the story along with everyone in the story.
completely different spin on a vampire story with the added benefit of a dhampir character with an entire family and team to back him up in his protection duties. love his family and how they fit into the story line as well.
love how kyra doesn't just sit back and allow gareth to protect her and be a simpering female but takes action, and tries to defend herself. is a kick ass heroine ready willing and able to protect herself but just not against a vampire with mind control. also kyra accepts the fact that magical monsters are real with a sense of humour and easier than gareth expected and tries to deal with everything magical that is thrown at her with humour and strength.
the ending where they have a bit of their futures told was a really cool touch to give the story a finishing spin.
highly recommend reading this book.
the characters are very well developed and make u feel u are part of the story along with everyone in the story.
completely different spin on a vampire story with the added benefit of a dhampir character with an entire family and team to back him up in his protection duties. love his family and how they fit into the story line as well.
love how kyra doesn't just sit back and allow gareth to protect her and be a simpering female but takes action, and tries to defend herself. is a kick ass heroine ready willing and able to protect herself but just not against a vampire with mind control. also kyra accepts the fact that magical monsters are real with a sense of humour and easier than gareth expected and tries to deal with everything magical that is thrown at her with humour and strength.
the ending where they have a bit of their futures told was a really cool touch to give the story a finishing spin.
highly recommend reading this book.
June 29, 2018
Absolutely fantastic new series. I understand this isn't the authors usual genre, but she kicked this book out of the park! From the moment I started reading I was hooked whole hog. I stayed up late and ignored my husband the whole time I was reading it. Kyra has had to take care of herself her whole life and does it really well. Until she catches the eye of one of the oldest vampires in existence. Luckily she has also caught the eye of a Guardian, Gareth, out to save her. This book has it all. Action, suspense, vampires, romance and a cast of characters that are unforgettable. I will say it again, I LOVED THIS BOOK. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
June 11, 2018
Nonstop thrills!
I love the concept of Guardians to protect people from vampires. These vamps are not nice creatures that have gained ageless wisdom through centuries of existence. Graphic gore is not my reading preference, but clearly illustrates the dangerous situation.
Gareth proves to be a powerful protector. He has the added incentive of recognizing Kyra on sight as his mate. I adore Kyra! She’s armed herself with skills to take down threats much larger and stronger than her. She keeps her head in scary situations. As for romance, it’s fast moving and off the charts hot!
I love the concept of Guardians to protect people from vampires. These vamps are not nice creatures that have gained ageless wisdom through centuries of existence. Graphic gore is not my reading preference, but clearly illustrates the dangerous situation.
Gareth proves to be a powerful protector. He has the added incentive of recognizing Kyra on sight as his mate. I adore Kyra! She’s armed herself with skills to take down threats much larger and stronger than her. She keeps her head in scary situations. As for romance, it’s fast moving and off the charts hot!
June 18, 2018
Defending Kyra is one of the few books of Susan’s I hadn’t read and boy oh boy was I missing out. Gareth and Kyra’s story is unique and puts a new spin on the traditional vampire stories. Unusual is just one word I can use to describe their story, a page turner of the highest order would be another phrase as well. On the run, danger at every turn, action, a sassy red head and an alpha who finally finds his One, all combined is a one sitting read you never want to end. Both thumbs up for this gem of a read.
January 26, 2020
A really enjoyable twist on the traditional vampire romance where the vampire isn't the love interest but the love villain. Our heroine is pursued strongly by two relatives--one good and one evil--who both want to bond her to them for eternity. I thought the excitement was palpable and really enjoyed getting to know the characters.
My only real complaint was that Kyra was totally cool with things for most of the book, but just when she should have been a-okay she suddenly snapped and I thought that the freak out should have happened a lot earlier in the book, but other than that it was an entertaining read.
My only real complaint was that Kyra was totally cool with things for most of the book, but just when she should have been a-okay she suddenly snapped and I thought that the freak out should have happened a lot earlier in the book, but other than that it was an entertaining read.
November 3, 2018
Defending Kyra(Guardians Book 1)BY Susan Hayes
Intensely riveting action filled storyline with amazing characters who are fighting for their lives and then finding they're more than just them needing to be together. Because of a dangerous predator whose focus has become increasingly dangerous for Kyra. You're going to love reading this and I can't wait to get the next addition to this whole series.💟💟💟💟💟💟💟
Intensely riveting action filled storyline with amazing characters who are fighting for their lives and then finding they're more than just them needing to be together. Because of a dangerous predator whose focus has become increasingly dangerous for Kyra. You're going to love reading this and I can't wait to get the next addition to this whole series.💟💟💟💟💟💟💟
June 16, 2018
Kyra has been defending herself most of her life, which makes it hard for her to let Gareth take the lead against one bad dude. In this sexy fated mate story Kyra is so kicka$$, yet her sarcastic retorts keep the story fun too. I was quickly drawn into this fast paced thrill ride, but the HEA was so sweet 😘
September 29, 2018
Good Storyline and Great Characters Over 18+ READING
Dhampir Gareth knows he has to protect bar manager Kyra from Dracula who wants her as bad as he does. They have a lot of things going wrong while they try to keep her safe. She will find lots of help and a chance of a new life and a loving family.
Dhampir Gareth knows he has to protect bar manager Kyra from Dracula who wants her as bad as he does. They have a lot of things going wrong while they try to keep her safe. She will find lots of help and a chance of a new life and a loving family.
January 29, 2019
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review.
Gareth_Kyra: Two men and one woman. Each drawn to her by the smell of her blood. One a hunter and the other a killer. Both wanting to keep her forever. She is innocent of life’s’ surrounding of predators in this world. But a crash course brings life to the forefront.
Gareth_Kyra: Two men and one woman. Each drawn to her by the smell of her blood. One a hunter and the other a killer. Both wanting to keep her forever. She is innocent of life’s’ surrounding of predators in this world. But a crash course brings life to the forefront.
July 28, 2025
Loved
She owned a bar it was her life after the carp her life was th I s and the people who worked for her were her life then it all started to change she kept having these horrible nightmares the first couple well not really one was a day dream which was beautiful and then once when she was asleep after that there were night mares she couldn't sleep properly because of them
She owned a bar it was her life after the carp her life was th I s and the people who worked for her were her life then it all started to change she kept having these horrible nightmares the first couple well not really one was a day dream which was beautiful and then once when she was asleep after that there were night mares she couldn't sleep properly because of them
June 27, 2018
Kyra and Gareth's story was a story that I was not putting down shall we say a very late night. This is a well-written story that I enjoyed from the beginning until the end. Looking forward to reading the next book. I received a copy of this book and I am voluntarily reviewing it
November 11, 2018
An exciting first book to the series!
This is the first book I've ever read by Susan Hayes and I really enjoyed it. I LOVE reading anything that's paranormal, especially vampires and shifters. I definitely recommend this book and look forward to the next book in the series.
This is the first book I've ever read by Susan Hayes and I really enjoyed it. I LOVE reading anything that's paranormal, especially vampires and shifters. I definitely recommend this book and look forward to the next book in the series.
May 3, 2019
A Great Addition to the Myth of Dracula
If you like bodyguard romances, vampires and the paranormal, this story is definitely a must read.
Susan Hayes is a brilliant author - I really love her series: The Drift!
If you like bodyguard romances, vampires and the paranormal, this story is definitely a must read.
Susan Hayes is a brilliant author - I really love her series: The Drift!
April 16, 2020
Fast paced story that keeps the pages turning. Was great to read a traditional look upon vampires as the enemies. The story of a vampire hunter who falls for the woman he is to protect. A great love story with equal suspense and action.
August 31, 2023
Personal Preference Rating 4/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️ Audiobook (ScribD)
I felt the climax/resolution portion of the book was a little short. I did like the main characters and I liked the overall plot. It was missing something I can’t put my finger on, it could have been the narrator, but I can’t be sure.
I felt the climax/resolution portion of the book was a little short. I did like the main characters and I liked the overall plot. It was missing something I can’t put my finger on, it could have been the narrator, but I can’t be sure.
June 17, 2018
Defending Kyra is an amazing story. If you liked Brom Storker's Dracula you will love Defending Kyra.
June 28, 2018
Defending Kyra
Interesting storytelling with lots of action and adventure. This one will keep you guessing what happens next and who will win in the end.
Interesting storytelling with lots of action and adventure. This one will keep you guessing what happens next and who will win in the end.
September 7, 2018
So so read
Book started well with strong female lead but then just seemed to wander and slow down. Ended up skimming the book until it picked up again. Not a keeper.
Book started well with strong female lead but then just seemed to wander and slow down. Ended up skimming the book until it picked up again. Not a keeper.
September 28, 2018
This was a really good book with lots of action and some humor thrown in. I would recommend this book to other readers.
October 23, 2018
Ok
Ok, not an original take on vampires. A pretty good kick butt heroine and hero, lots of action and romance.
Ok, not an original take on vampires. A pretty good kick butt heroine and hero, lots of action and romance.
November 4, 2018
Very strong woman POV and equally strong man.
Good mix of urban fantasy and romance - stronger on the romance.
Nothing outstanding either bad or good, so great beach read.
Good mix of urban fantasy and romance - stronger on the romance.
Nothing outstanding either bad or good, so great beach read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews